Overview of the Game

In a contest that showcased the rollercoaster dynamics of college football, the No. 5 seed Texas Longhorns narrowly escaped the No. 4 seed Arizona State Sun Devils, advancing to the College Football Playoff semifinals after a heart-pounding overtime battle. Despite an early lead, Texas faced a dramatic collapse, allowing ASU to rally late in the game, only to be saved by crucial plays in overtime.

Arizona State's Struggles and Turnaround

From the onset, Arizona State struggled to find their rhythm, tallying only 178 total yards in the first half and a meager 47 yards rushing. However, things took a turn in the second half. The Sun Devils, known for their efficiency in time of possession, flipped the script on Texas after the break, dominating ball control for over 12 minutes in the third quarter. This strategic shift allowed ASU to exploit fatigue in the Longhorn defense, finishing the game with an impressive 510 total yards—214 on the ground and 296 through the air.

Defensive Concerns for Texas

The collapse by the Longhorns' defense was alarming, as they allowed over 500 yards for the first time since last year’s playoff loss to Washington. They were also just shy of allowing consecutive 300-yard passing games for the first time in history, and the 200-yard rushing game marked a concerning trend that echoed their previous year’s defensive woes against formidable opponents. Arizona State's star running back, Cam Skattebo, was a significant contributor to this effort, showcasing his explosive running with 143 yards, of which 73 were gained on just four carries.

Quinn Ewers' Resilience

On the Texas sideline, quarterback Quinn Ewers had a game filled with ups and downs. Starting strong, he quickly put together a brief but productive offensive drive, but inconsistent throwing plagued him throughout the first three quarters. The turning point came after a costly turnover, where Ewers showcased his resilience, completing 10 of his last 13 passes, including a stunning game-winning throw to Matthew Golden during overtime. In doing so, Ewers not only clinched the victory but also secured his place in the school’s record book with his third 300-yard passing game of the season, now holding the second-most in Texas history behind the legendary Colt McCoy.

Standout Performance by Matthew Golden

Matthew Golden emerged as a standout performer for Texas, collecting seven receptions for 149 yards, including a pivotal touchdown that changed the momentum of the game. His stellar performance, including a thrilling 54-yard reception on the opening play and a game-winning touchdown in overtime, proved crucial.

Looking Ahead

As Texas prepares for their next challenge in the playoffs, the Longhorns must address their defensive lapses if they hope to contend for a championship. With Arizona State showcasing their potential, both teams leave this game with valuable lessons and a renewed sense of urgency as the playoff race heats up. Stay tuned for more thrilling college football action!